Epiphone has sent shockwaves through the Britpop world, unveiling two highly anticipated signature semi-hollow guitars for Oasis guitarists, Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs and Gem Archer. These new models—the Bonehead Riviera in Dark Tobacco Sunburst and the Masterbilt Gem Archer Sheraton in Cherry Red—are faithful recreations of the instruments that defined the massive sound of the 1990s music scene, particularly during the band’s meteoric rise with albums like Definitely Maybe and (What’s the Story) Morning Glory.
Following the announcement earlier today of the Gibson Unveils Noel Gallagher Les Paul Standard, there are now not one but two Epiphone models available in right- and left-handed versions.
The High-Voltage Rhythm Machine: Epiphone Bonehead Riviera
The new Epiphone Bonehead Riviera pays homage to the 1984 model that was Paul “Bonehead” Arthur’s constant companion, from the smallest early gigs to the legendary Knebworth concerts.
This guitar was central to his driving, textured rhythm work—the bedrock of the classic Oasis sound.
Key Features for Oasis Tone Hunters:
- Semi-Hollow Construction: A five-ply maple body with a solid maple centerblock is engineered to deliver enhanced sustain while drastically reducing feedback, capturing the authentic tone of Oasis’s early records.
- Classic Electronics: It’s equipped with a pair of Alnico Classic PRO humbuckers wired to individual volume and tone controls utilizing CTS potentiometers, ensuring rich, vintage-inspired tone with modern reliability.
- Premium Playability: The three-piece maple neck features a comfortable SlimTaper C profile with a volute, a bound rosewood fingerboard, and 22 medium jumbo frets.
- Signature Details: The Sloped Dovewing headstock is finished with a Graph Tech nut for smooth tuning and, for fans, Bonehead’s signature is reproduced in gold on the back. A hardshell case is included for road-ready protection.
This is a must-have for any guitarist seeking that iconic, high-energy Britpop guitar tone.
Available at Andertons, right-handed and left-handed £849
Available at Sweetwater, right-handed and left-handed $899
Available at Thomann in right-handed and left-handed versions for €999 each
Masterbilt Craftsmanship: Epiphone Gem Archer Sheraton
Epiphone also proudly introduces the Masterbilt Gem Archer Sheraton, a signature model inspired by the cherished 1966 Sheraton gifted to Gem Archer by Noel Gallagher.
Archer, known for his work in Oasis, Beady Eye, and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, has made this guitar a staple of his collection, and the Masterbilt line ensures this recreation meets the highest standards.
Sheraton Specs for the Discerning Player:
- Inspired by Gibson Custom: The Masterbilt edition features the etched Double Diamond emblem on the back of the headstock, a hallmark of Epiphone’s elite Custom lineup models.
- USA-Made Pickups: The guitar is powered by a pair of USA-made Gibson Mini Humbucker pickups, providing a rich, articulate, and versatile tone, with control via premium CTS potentiometers and Mallory capacitors.
- Vintage Construction: Built with a 5-ply layered maple/poplar body and a solid maple centerblock, it offers outstanding sustain and feedback resistance. The one-piece mahogany neck has a comfortable ’60s C profile.
- Elegant Appointments: Finished in a rich Vintage Gloss with gold hardware, the guitar boasts Grover® Rotomatic® tuners with Milk Bottle buttons, an ABR-1 bridge, and an elegant Casino-style raised diamond trapeze tailpiece. It is available in both right-handed and left-handed configurations and ships with an Epiphone hardshell case.
The Masterbilt Gem Archer Sheraton offers a blend of timeless semi-hollow elegance and professional-grade components for the demanding guitarist.
Available at Andertons, right-handed and left-handed £1199
Available at Sweetwater, right-handed and left-handed $1299
Available at Thomann in right-handed and left-handed versions for €1399 each
Both new signature models not only celebrate the instruments wielded by two key figures in one of the UK’s most legendary bands but also underscore Epiphone’s “For Every Stage” philosophy by offering premium, authentic recreations to a new generation of players and dedicated fans alike.
More Information
#Epiphone #Oasis #Bonehead #Gem Archer #Britpop
This article may contain affiliate links to Andertons, DeathCloud, Fender, Gear4Music, Sweetwater, and Thomann that help finance the running costs of GuitarBomb. We will receive a small commission if you buy something through these links. Don’t worry; you pay the same price, and it costs you no extra to use these affiliate links for your purchases.
